As a driver, I always do my best not to get a traffic ticket. Years of driving had made me familiar with how cops rush at the end of the month just to meet their quota. In short, I’ve had my fair share of traffic violations over the years. The simple fact is as much as possible follow traffic rules and regulations. However, sooner or later you need to deal with traffic cops that’s why I might as well give you some tips on how to deal when this situation arises.
- Always be Respectful
The most common mistake that a traffic violator does is to increase the tension by talking too much. A cop always looks at a routine traffic stop as an unpredictable and dangerous situation. If you stay uncooperative, it will only make the situation go from bad to worse. Explain your side calmly, lower your window and turn off your radio when a cop tells you to stop. It only shows him that you respect authority and that you’ve got nothing to hide that can make him or her suspicious.
- Limit your Talking
This item is somewhat related to the first one and its main purpose is to show the cop that you recognize his or her presence. Talking too much would make it appear that you are at the defensive, which isn’t a very good thing when you are talking to a cop. Always wait for your turn before talking and never be rude to the cop.
- Evade Arguing
There are bad apples wherever you go and that is also true when it comes to cops. The thing is, no matter how clearly and succinct you’ve stated your case to him or her, sometimes it doesn’t and wouldn’t work. Know when to stop by conceding to the cop and if you think that he has abused his authority, there are proper venues for complaining about his demeanor.
- Don’t Use Ignorance as an Excuse
If you’re a woman just like me you can use your charms sometimes but not all the time to get out of a traffic violation encounter. I find it quite ridiculous when most men use ignorance as an excuse when they get caught on the road. The fact is it simply would not work, once you obtain your license, you are required to abide with all the rules of the road no matter what. Besides, this is probably the most common excuse for cops, so just forget about using this one.
- Always Ask for a Warning
When an officer orders you to pull over, always ask for a warning. On the other hand, when an officer gives you one, he or she is doing you a favor, so don’t let your anger get the better of you.
- When already on the Court
When things become too serious such as your case brought to the court, always have a lawyer that will handle it. If you think that you can get away easily because it’s merely a traffic violation , you’re wrong. Your case can be used against you in the future, worse you might have difficulties getting important documents because of it.
- Always Present a Strong Case
Although this might sound pretty obvious, always be prepared when defending your case before a court. Aside from knowing the details and presenting strong evidence, always be on time, dress appropriately and speak clearly. Although these do not guarantee a decision in your favor, at least you’re showing the judge that you deserve a second thought.
What I wanted to instill by stressing these things is that there’s a way to get out of stressful and tense-filled situations. Unless you’re a criminal, getting toe-to-toe with the law is not an everyday and often pleasant experience. Remember to always know your rights and handle yourself properly too.
